Tuesday, August 9

The producers of The Sound of Music tour have announced that Connie Fisheris unable to return to play Maria for its final engagements at Wales Millennium Centre, Manchester Palace Theatre, Newcastle Theatre Royal and New Theatre Wimbledon.

Connie has been undergoing intensive therapy and coaching to try and cure a vocal condition, but her voice has not recovered sufficiently for her to tackle the demands of the role of Maria.

Connie said today: "After many months of battling with a throat condition known as congenital sulcus vocalis, my vocal range has altered dramatically and it is with much regret that I have to withdraw from “The Sound of Music” as I no longer have the range to sing the part of Maria. My journey with this amazing show has been such a magical one and I am devastated that I am not able to close the tour. I have loved every minute of working with Andrew Lloyd Webber, David Ian and the cast and crew of “The Sound of Music” and I am only sorry that I am not able to be with them until the last performance."

Verity Rushworth who is currently playing Maria will continue in the role for the remainder of the tour.